Arrest Made in Hit and Run Crash that Killed Bicyclist

*UPDATE* Livingston Parish – Troopers have continued to thoroughly investigate the crash that claimed the life of 46-year-old Earl Jones. Through investigative means, Troopers identified the driver of the pickup truck as 41-year-old Timothy Bandy of Denham Springs. On March 15, 2024, Bandy was booked into the Livingston Parish Jail for Hit and Run Resulting in Death or Injury; Negligent Homicide; Obstruction of Justice; and other traffic related offenses. This crash remains under investigation and any additional information will be updated.

Original Release: February 24, 2024
Livingston Parish – On February 24, 2024, just before 2:30 am, Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop A responded to a fatal crash on LA 1026 at Gene Buckel Avenue in Denham Springs. The crash claimed the life of 46-year-old Earl Jones of Denham Springs.

The preliminary investigation revealed that Jones was riding a bicycle west on LA 1026 when he was impacted from behind by an unknown vehicle that was also traveling west on LA 1026. Jones suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the unknown vehicle failed to stop and left the scene of the crash.

Troopers were able to obtain surveillance video and identify a light-colored pickup truck, possibly a single cab heavy-duty with rooftop lights as a vehicle of interest. The pickup truck should have damage to the front end and passenger side. Anyone with information regarding this crash is asked to contact LSP Troop A at 225-754-8500

Louisiana State Troopers wish to remind bicyclists never to assume that a motorist can see you. Simple precautions such as wearing reflective clothing and avoiding distractions are vital to preventing crashes. Wearing a protective helmet can help reduce the risk of serious injury and fatality. Louisiana law requires bicyclists to remain as close to the right side of the road roadway as possible and follow all traffic laws.

Contact Information:
Sgt. Kate Stegall
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section – Region 1
Office: 225-925-6202
Katharine.Stegall@la.gov
www.lsp.org